After a period of neglect that saw many of downtown Auckland’s gorgeous heritage buildings in a state of near decay, the warehouses, storerooms and elegant Art Deco architecture of this hub have been restored and revitalised, breathing much needed new life into the Britomart precinct. The area has the largest concentration of heritage buildings in the city, all built between 1880 and 1920, complemented by new developments by world-class architects. The precinct is a magnet for visual artists and designers, and the public areas that link the buildings together are teeming with art installations. You’ll also find iconic Kiwi fashion labels and works of young designers; restaurants and bars in rescued warehouses with glittering harbour views; and exhibition spaces – all celebrating contemporary New Zealand culture.